Keeping it Cool this Summer

 
Summer days, often hot and uncomfortable for us, are even more so for our furry loved ones. With just a little extra effort, even the most sweltering days can be full of exercise, great activities, and fun.

Here are a few tips:
1. ENJOY YOUR WALKS WET
Gently spray your dog with a hose before and after walks using the mist option if possible. Focus on places where they get especially hot, including their paws, belly and under their legs.  You can also find a place to swim.  Dogs are typically cooler and happier when walking wet!

​2. ​HYDRATE
Pet shops have great doggie water bottles. People water bottles work too.  On very hot days give your dog a few sips every 10-15 minutes from a dish or water bottle during outdoor activity to keep
​them hydrated.

Photo 1:  Bodie (left) and Roscoe (right) share some water during a play group.
​Photo 2:  ​Bodie (front), Cooper (behind) and Betty (back left) drink water and rest in the shade.                                                               
​3. ​BABY POOLS ARE FOR DOGS TOO!
Dogs can play, wade, run, and frolic in a baby pool right in your back yard.  Extra "cool" outdoor fun!
​
4. DIGGING!
Many dogs love to dig and then lie in a cool patch of dirt on hot days. This activity gives dogs exercise, a sense of accomplishment, and a cool shady place to rest.

Photo 1:  OJ works hard digging to find the wet earth.
Photo 2:  ​Then he chills in his cool spot with his good friend Millie!                                                                         
​5. ​​Frozen Treats
​​Frozen peanut butter filled kongs, ice cubes, and other cold treats are a delicious, fun way to cool down after a hot summer outing!

6. ​​​Indoor Play Time
​On the hottest days enjoy a short walk followed by some playtime in the air conditioning or near a fan in your home.  Hide and go seek, fetch, tug of war and other games can be played inside, providing a more safe and comfortable means to get exercise, bond, and have fun!

Tug of war is a doggie favorite that can easily be played indoors.  In the above photos Bodie (first photo) and Mia (second photo) show us what they got!

​                                                                                                                               ​By Robyn